About us

ISPN Overview

The Indiana Suicide Prevention Network Action Committee (ISPNAC) is comprised of mental health advocates, representatives from state agencies, leaders from county/regional suicide prevention coalitions, people who serve populations that have higher suicide risk (brain injury, substance use, youth), healthcare and mental health providers, veteran/military groups, people with lived experience, non-profit organizations, educational institutions, and others that are passionate about preventing suicide.

ISPNAC serves as the program arm of ISPN. Meetings are held monthly (fourth Wednesday of the month, 11:00-1:00, via Zoom) to work on projects and stay in the loop regarding suicide prevention efforts across the state.

MISSION

We are a statewide community working to prevent suicide by advancing the conversation, eliminating stigma, and building hope.

VISION

We envision a future where every individual, regardless of their struggles, finds hope, support, and resilience, fostering a community where lives are enriched, and suicide is minimized through compassionate understanding and wellness.

WE BELIEVE

Suicide is a significant but largely preventable public health issue.
Promoting mental wellness throughout a lifetime is the key to preventing suicide.
Suicide can affect everyone, and its prevention requires a culturally diverse approach.

Talking openly and raising awareness is essential to eliminating the stigma and shame of suicide.
Using evidence based and best practices is critical to building everyone’s confidence and competence in suicide prevention.
Suicide prevention is everyone’s business; therefore, we support individual, local, community, and statewide efforts.

HISTORY

The creation of ISPN stems from the statewide efforts of the Indiana Suicide Prevention

Network Advisory Council, originally formed, to guide the suicide prevention work of the Indiana Division of Mental Health and Addiction, as well as other entities throughout the state. Over time, the evolution of these efforts warranted the creation of a formalized, independent organization.

How to get involved

Anyone can join ISPNAC. We meet via Zoom on the fourth Wednesday of the month from 11:00 a.m. -1:00 p.m. Contact jcraig@mhai.net for the Zoom link.

Current & Ongoing Projects

Suicide Prevention Framework
Suicide Prevention Framework to help communities and organization develop their own suicide prevention plan.

Suicide Prevention Month
Raise awareness by adding your logo to this flyer and distributing/posting it during September.

ISPN Board

Calvin Roberson, IU Simon Cancer Center
Michelle Bulington, Indiana Division of Mental Health and Addiction
Jason Murrey, Indiana Department of Education
Alice Jordan-Miles, Indiana Suicide Prevention Coalition
Collen Carpenter, Stop Suicide Northeast Indiana
Kelsey Aaron, American Foundation for Suicide Prevention Indiana Chapter

Our Staff

Jason Craig, CPS-A

Director

Prior to joining the Indiana Suicide Prevention Network (ISPN), I served four years with the Indiana Division of Mental Health and Addiction (DMHA) as a Regional Prevention Coordinator for East Central Indiana. In this role, I collaborated with communities to initiate systems change related to substance misuse and mental health, aiming to enhance health outcomes for residents. I am a Certified Prevention Specialist-Associate, currently working towards full certification as well as a QPR Instructor.

Before joining the human service field spent 17 years in Supply Chain Management, spending 15 of those years with the same employer starting out as a part-time stocker to trusted member of the management team. Motivated by a desire to make a meaningful impact on future generations, I pursued my bachelor’s degree in the Psychology of Addiction and Recovery while working full-time.

I am passionate about continuing to work with agencies, communities, and individuals to expand knowledge of suicide prevention resources, dedicated to fostering hope for those experiencing suicidal ideation and providing support for survivors of suicide.

When not working, I spend my time with my wife and 2 dogs and spending time with family and friends playing games, watching movies or just hanging outside. In May, you will find me at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway going on 20+ years.

Kassi Kotkoski, CCHW

Administrative Coordinator

As a CHW, I am passionate about being an active part in the overall health of individuals.

For much of my career, I have worked for non- profit organizations. I have a background in prevention and community relations. This background has helped me dedicate myself to ensuring everyone has access to equal opportunities.

I enjoy providing administrative support here at MHAI which allows me to help others meet their goals and allow them to pour back into their communities.

When I am not working, I enjoy spending time with my children and listening to live music.